“The Virginia Values Act represents decades worth of hard work on the part of advocates, constituents, and many colleagues right here in the legislature,” said Senator Ebbin. “It is long past time that every Virginian -- members ofthe LGBTQ community, religious minorities, people of color, and veterans -- be treated equally under the law.”

“For too long, LGBTQ Virginians have been subjected to unfair, discriminatory practices, and we have been too slow to make progress” said Senator McClellan. “We still have work to do to ensure that all Virginians are treated equally, but the passage ofthe Virginia Values Act represents a great step in the right direction towards ensuring LGBTQ equality in Virginia.”

"I am so pleased that my House colleagues share our values agreeing to end to discriminatory practices based on sexual orientation and gender identity," said Senator Boysko. “On behalf of all ofthe moms and dads, brothers and sisters, grandparents and friends who have loved ones in the LGBTQ community, it is time that Virginia becomes a place that is truly welcoming and open to all.”